Step 1:Choose the type of hardwood you are interesting and the specific width that you like. Hardwood floors can be prefinished so that you don't have to do the sanding, thin laminated, thick planks or strips. Step 2:In order to get the correct amount of hardwood, you need to measure the room. Make sure you multiply the width by length measurement and allow for 10-15% extra hardwood in case of any mistakes. This way you are sure to have extra wood and won't have to find some that may not match later.

Step 3:Give your wood time to adjust to your home. Wood can expand in different climates, so stack wood in the room you are going to install it in for a few days in order to get it acclimated.

Step 4:Check your sub-floor and make sure you have at least 3/4" plywood. If you do not, you may need to add another layer of plywood. Repair any squeaks in your floor by running a long screw through the sub-floor and into to the joist. Also remove any shoe molding and make sure the room is swept and clean before proceeding.

Step 5:Overlap and staple sheets of Vapor Barrier Paper by 4". Asphalt-saturated #15 felt (tar paper) has been recommended. Red rosin can be used as a slip sheet between plywood and hardwood in order to eliminate squeaks if moisture is not a problem.

Step 6:Installing hardwood perpendicular to floor joists will create most stability. Installing parallel, however, can be easier and more attractive. If installing perpendicular, mark where the floor joists are on the baseboard. Remove shoe molding and make a chalk line 3/8"-1/2" out to account for any expansion in the wood. Solid wood needs a larger gap along the perimeter when installing. If installing parallel, begin at the longest most unobstructed wall and lay in a straight line.

Step 7:Lay out your wood! Make sure to mix wood from different bundles to avoid a color change and to arrange based on grain, aesthetics and varying board lengths. Board tongues should be facing the center of the room. Use drill pilot holes on the exterior boards to avoid the wood from splitting. Make a hole every 10-12 inches, then make sure the nails go into the sub floor and joists. On exterior nails, it is important to face-nail each board rather than use the pneumatic nail. The nail set will help make sure the nail is hidden into the wood.

Step 8:Your power pneumatic nail gun will help install the rest of the boards and a mallet can be used if boards need some help fitting together. Take your time to avoid any gaps or misalignment. This will make it much less frustrating at the end if the floor is off trying to figure out where it went wrong. Also come back later to make exact cuts on excess wood. ​Step 9:Touch up your work with wood putty. Wood putty should be used to fill in the holes that have been face nailed and to fix any minor damages that were made. Make sure the wood putty you pick matches your floor.

To see vidoes on how to install your own hardwood floor, visit DIY Network